No matter the destination, and no matter the reason for being there, the allure of a hotel suite knows no bounds.
A suite is a hotel’s first-class seat, often the most desired room and the epitome of hospitality done right.
Be it palatial or cozy, high-design or low-key, it offers a place to eat, sleep, dress, entertain, observe or just plain lounge. The overall effect can be irresistible.
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Many hotels have taken their suite offerings to (literally) new heights. London’s Corinthia Hotel, for instance, houses the 5,000-square-foot Royal Penthouse, which contains its own spa-treatment pod and a striking spiral staircase (among other luxe touches) and is the largest two-bedroom hotel residence in that city. The chic Arts Suite at the design-driven Hotel Arts Barcelona offers guests special extras, such as helicopter transport to lunch at one of Spain’s Michelin-starred restaurants, or electric Smart cars to drive around town.
While size is often a major selling point, it isn’t the only measure of success. Taking cues from the outside environment can turn an already spectacular setting into something extraordinary. The Girijaala Suite at Amangiri in Canyon Point, Utah, takes full advantage of its superb desert locale, incorporating natural elements into its design and maximizing views of the Entrada Sandstone mesas. And in Marrakech, the Atlas Deluxe Suite at Selman is perched on 15 acres of parkland and offers unprecedented views of the Atlas Mountains, as well as the hotel’s 16 Arabian horses.
Award-winning actress Vivien Leigh once said, “I need something truly beautiful to look at in hotel rooms.” These suites have beautiful views of all kinds covered, but they also create an experience that conforms to every need, making for a truly unforgettable stay.
More articles from Departures:
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- The Perfect New York Hotel Rooms
- Stunning Hotel Dining Room Views
- Spectacular Hotel Rooftop Pools
This story was originally published by Departures.
The Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong: The Ritz Carlton Suite
This 4,460-square-foot escape has all the necessities: butler service, access to the hotel’s Club Lounge, a dreamy bathroom with Acqua di Parma bath amenities, a sizable dining and living area, monogrammed robes, pillowcases, and towels. But its location on the 117th floor of the Ritz-Carlton, Hong Kong—which makes it the hotel’s loftiest room—really seals the deal. Spectacular views of Victoria Harbour and the island of Hong Kong itself are thrilling. They are in fact so breathtaking, you might not even notice other in-room highlights, such as the sauna and the shower, which is big enough for eight people.
From $15,472
International Commerce Centre, 1 Austin Rd. W., Kowloon
852-2263-2263
Amangiri, Canyon Point, Utah: Girijaala Suite
Natural wonders highlight this suite in the desert. Amangiri, which opened in 2009, positions it to take full advantage of the gorgeous landscape, the nearby Grand Staircase-Escalante National Monument, and the Entrada Sandstone mesas. (“Girijaala” means “mountain ridge”; the resort is located on 600 acres in a valley.) Guests enter the suite via a private courtyard that continues up to a sky lounge with an outdoor bed. There is a 46-by-12-foot pool and terrace. Stone floors and concrete walls add to the natural feel, and a bench carved out of one of the outer concrete walls emphasizes the oneness with the surrounding land. Whether marveling at the constellation-filled night sky, watching the sunset amid the mountains or contemplating a visit to the spa (just steps away), it is difficult to make a bad choice here.
From $3,300
1 Kayenta Rd.
435-675-3999
Hotel Arts Barcelona: Arts Suite
This 1,600-square-foot, one-bedroom suite at this design-forward hotel in Barcelona offers special touches and singular experiences in equal measure. Minimalist and furnished with pieces by the likes of designer Antonio Citterio and B&B Italia, the suite features wide views of the Mediterranean Sea and famed La Sagrada Família church. For a real treat, the hotel’s helicopter will transport guests to one of three Michelin-starred restaurants, including El Celler de Can Roca in Girona (a 45-minute flight away). Electric Smart cars are also available, and a fragrance concierge can help formulate a custom scent to mark the visit.
From $8,775; helicopter lunch, additional $5,014 a couple
Marina 19–21
34-93/221-1000
See the rest of the story at Business Insider